Description
I remember the first time I shouldered a Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon on a sporting clays course. It wasn’t mine, but the way it swung and broke targets made a lasting impression. Years later, after putting thousands of shells through various over-unders, I still find the Silver Pigeon 1 Sporting to be one of the most reliable and elegantly simple platforms for the serious clay shooter. Here’s my take on this specific configuration.
The Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon 1 Sporting 12 Ga 32 Vent Rib Barrel 3 Chamber Engraved Receiver Select Walnut Stock Oil Finish is a dedicated sporting clays and target shotgun. It’s a 12-gauge over-under with 32″ vent rib barrels, a 3″ chamber, and a receiver adorned with classic scroll engraving. The stock is crafted from select walnut with an oil finish, prioritizing handling and durability for high-volume shooting. This model is built for smooth, consistent performance on the range.
Let’s start with what matters most: the swing. The 32-inch barrels on this model aren’t just for show—they provide that long, fluid plane that serious target shooters crave. The vent rib is high and wide, giving you a superb sight picture that helps you stay on the bird. I’ve found that the extra barrel length, combined with a weight of around 7.5 pounds, creates a momentum that feels natural for follow-through shots. It’s the kind of gun that encourages good form.
Under the hood, you have Beretta’s legendary low-profile action. It’s slim, strong, and locks up tight with that satisfying click. The 3″ chamber handles everything from light 2¾” target loads to heavier stuff, though you’ll likely be feeding it a steady diet of the former. The single selective trigger and automatic ejectors are drop-in ready for competition—no fuss, no gunsmithing required to start breaking clays. It shares core mechanical DNA with its more expensive siblings in the 600 series, so you’re getting proven reliability.
The aesthetics are where this model earns its “Silver Pigeon” name. The engraved receiver has a timeless, understated elegance. More importantly, the select walnut stock with an oil finish isn’t just pretty. The oil finish is more forgiving than a high-gloss varnish; it’s easier to maintain and touch up after a long day in the elements. It feels warm in the hands, and the dimensions—typically around a 14.5″ length of pull—are classically proportioned for a solid mount.
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
|---|---|
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 32″ |
| Barrel Type | Vent Rib |
| Stock | Select Walnut, Oil Finish |
| Receiver | Engraved Steel |
Pros: The balance is superb for target work. Beretta’s build quality and reliability are second to none. The oil-finished walnut is both beautiful and practical. It’s a proven design that won’t let you down.
Cons: At $2101.64, it’s a significant investment. The 32″ barrels can feel long and cumbersome in tight quarters or for shooters with shorter arms. It’s a specialist tool for clays, not a general-purpose field gun.
So who is this for? Look, this is the shotgun for the shooter who is committed to sporting clays or trap. It’s for the person who values a pure, mechanical trigger, consistent swing dynamics, and a finish that will look better with age and use. If you’re moving up from a semi-auto or pump and want a dedicated target over-under that performs well above its price point, this is a top contender. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this gun suitable for hunting?
A: While it could technically be used in a blind, the 32″ barrels and sporting-focused balance make it less than ideal. You’d be better served by the field version of the Silver Pigeon with shorter barrels for most upland or waterfowl scenarios.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: It typically includes a set of Beretta’s Mobilchoke tubes (like Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full). These are the same choke system used across much of Beretta’s lineup, offering great aftermarket support for finding your perfect constriction.
Q: How does it compare to a Browning Citori?
A: That’s the classic rivalry. Both are outstanding. The Beretta action is generally slimmer from the shooter’s perspective, which some prefer for a consistent cheek weld. The Browning often has a slightly different weight distribution. The best advice is to shoulder both—the one that points more naturally for you is the right choice.
If you’re ready for a target shotgun that blends Italian elegance with rugged dependability, the Silver Pigeon 1 Sporting deserves a close look. Check its availability for your next range session.
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